Tower Bridge: a London landmark

One of London's most iconic landmarks is the Tower Bridge.

This legendary structure not only has a fascinating history, but also offers breathtaking views.

So get ready to find out everything you need to know about this bridge!

Tower bridge: article summary

The history of Tower Bridge

When exploring the history of Tower Bridge, it is important to recognize the key figures behind its creation.

The architect responsible for this iconic design was Sir Horace Jones. The engineer who brought the concept to life was Sir John Wolfe Barry.

Together, they shaped the vision of the bridge and their collaboration gave birth to the magnificent structure you see today.

The result of a design competition

Before Tower Bridge was built, a design competition was held to choose the best concept for the new bridge.

Architects and engineers have submitted their proposals and Sir Horace Jones was chosen as the winner.

Its design included a sophisticated bascule bridge and suspension system, which would raise the bridge for the passage of ships while maintaining a stable passage for pedestrians and vehicles.

Tower Bridge: a long construction process

Construction of the bridge began on April 22, 1886 and took eight years. Some 432 construction workers were involved in the project on a daily basis, building the 60 m-high, 243 m-long and 76 m-wide structure.

The foundations, immersed in the river bed, were nearly 8 m deep. approximately 31,000,000 bricks were used to build the bridge.

During the construction process, the engineers had to overcome a number of challenges, such as the heavy traffic on the Thames.

In addition, the style of the bridge had to complement the beautiful appearance of the adjacent Tower of London. The end result was an impressive feat of engineering and architecture. which was officially opened on June 30, 1894 by the Prince and Princess of Wales.

Tower Bridge design and structure

the bridge is a combination of a weighbridge and a suspension bridge. The weights, or the moving parts of the bridge, are operated by a hydraulic system, and were originally powered by steam engines.

These bascules allowed the bridge to be raised and lowered for the passage of ships, making it a functional and emblematic design.

The suspension bridge section of Tower Bridge consists of two massive steel towers, which support the upper walkways and the roadway, offering stability and visual appeal.

Tower bridge: bridge materials

The bridge is built from a variety of materials, including steel, granite, Portland stone, concrete, bricks and rivets.

Steel framing lends strength to the structure, while the granite and Portland stone exterior gives a timeless, aesthetic appearance.

Concrete and bricks are used in the foundations, ensuring a solid base for the bridge. The use of rivets in the tower bridge construction process demonstrates the engineering techniques of the time.

A true innovation in engineering

The bridge is a testament to the technical innovations of its time. Designed by architect Sir Horace Jones and civil engineer Sir John Wolfe Barry, the bridge boasts a range of cutting-edge features of the time.

These include the original hydraulic system. This used steam to power the huge pumping motors, allowing the scales to rise and fall.

Today, the hydraulic system has been updated to use electricity and oil, making it more efficient and environmentally friendly.

In conclusion, the design and structure represent a blend of practical engineering, architectural style and materials that have stood the test of time.

The combination of bascule and suspension bridge elements, and the use of steel, granite, Portland stone and other materials, highlight the innovation and elegance of the bridge.

Tower bridge: don't miss the glass walkways and floors

When you visit the bridge, you can start your experience by climbing the north tower and taking the east and west footbridges.

These footbridges offer breathtaking views of London and the Thames. As you cross the iconic glass floors, you can watch the bustling river traffic below. Don't forget to take a souvenir photo.

Tower Bridge exhibition

Immerse yourself in the marvel of history and engineering that is Tower Bridge with this exhibition. Go down the south tower to road level, follow the blue line celebrating the workers who built the bridge.

Finally, enter the Victorian engine rooms to learn more about the hydraulic power used to lift the bridge, and explore fascinating interactive galleries.

Take a guided tour

For an enriching experience, consider taking a guided tour. Experienced guides bring the history of the bridge to life. They share facts and interesting stories along the way.

The tour includes access to areas not normally open to the public, enabling a deeper understanding of this iconic London landmark.

How much do tickets cost?

Ticket prices for the tour are :

• 12,30 £ for adults
• 6,20 £ for children
• 9,20 £ for students

Children under five get in free. If you have a London Pass, access to the bridge exhibition is included.

How to get to Tower Bridge

Getting to Tower Bridge is relatively easy, with several metro nearby, including :

• Tower Hill
• Borough
• Bermondsey

What are the visiting hours?

Tower Bridge opens :

• Every day 9.30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

When in London, it's hard not to visit Tower Bridge. Here you can discover exceptional engineering requiring the efforts of many workers.

What to do in London in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?

Whatever the length of your stay, I invite you to download my special London guide.

It's free and in PDF format.

All you have to do is tell me below which e-mail address you'd like to receive it at.

EDIT: you can't enter your email?

Take the quiz at the top of this article and you'll be able to register your email address to receive the special London guide!